What is the danger of placing a 20-gauge shell in a 12-gauge shotgun?

Using a 20-gauge shell in a 12-gauge shotgun poses a significant danger because the smaller shell can become lodged in the barrel. If this occurs, the shotgun may not properly discharge the next round, leading to a potentially explosive situation when the firearm is fired again. This blockage can cause a catastrophic failure of the shotgun, resulting in serious personal injury to the shooter and bystanders. The force generated when the shotgun is fired could lead to the barrel bursting, which is especially dangerous given that the barrel is not designed to withstand the pressures created when fired under these circumstances. Understanding the importance of using the correct ammunition gauge is essential for safe firearms handling and operation.